As an IELTS examiner and experienced English teacher, I understand the importance of being well-prepared for the IELTS Speaking test. One common topic that often appears in IELTS Speaking Part 2 is “Describe a time when you learned something new in school.” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to tackle this topic effectively and provide sample answers to help you achieve a high score.
Understanding the Topic
The topic “Describe a time when you learned something new in school” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to recall personal experiences, describe them in detail, and express your thoughts and feelings about learning. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a common theme in future tests.
IELTS Speaking Test
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to learning and school experiences. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you enjoy learning new things?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy learning new things. It’s always interesting to gain knowledge about different subjects. I find it satisfying when I understand something I didn’t know before.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m passionate about expanding my horizons and acquiring new skills. There’s something inherently rewarding about the process of learning, as it not only broadens my perspective but also enhances my problem-solving abilities. I find that each new piece of knowledge often opens up a whole new world of possibilities and connections.
Q: How do you prefer to learn new information?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I prefer to learn through practical experience. I find it easier to remember things when I can apply them in real situations. Reading books and watching videos are also helpful for me.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m a firm believer in a multi-faceted approach to learning. While I find hands-on experience invaluable, I also rely heavily on a combination of in-depth research, engaging discussions with experts, and multimedia resources. This diverse learning strategy allows me to grasp complex concepts from various angles, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you learned something new in school.
You should say:
- What you learned
- How you learned it
- Why you learned it
- And explain how you felt about learning this new thing
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
I’d like to talk about the time I learned about photosynthesis in my biology class during high school. It was a fascinating process that I hadn’t fully understood before.
Our teacher used a combination of textbook explanations and simple experiments to help us learn. We studied the different stages of photosynthesis and even grew some plants in the classroom to observe the process firsthand.
We learned this topic because it’s a fundamental concept in biology, explaining how plants produce their own food and release oxygen as a byproduct, which is crucial for life on Earth.
I felt quite excited about learning this new concept. It was eye-opening to understand how plants work and their importance in our ecosystem. The hands-on experiments made the learning process more engaging and helped me grasp the concept better.
Overall, learning about photosynthesis was a positive experience that increased my interest in biology and made me appreciate nature even more.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to share an experience from my high school days when I delved into the intricate world of quantum mechanics in my advanced physics class. This mind-bending subject completely revolutionized my understanding of the physical world.
Our teacher, a passionate physicist, employed a multi-faceted approach to help us grasp these complex concepts. We immersed ourselves in theoretical discussions, pored over scientific papers, and even conducted simple experiments to demonstrate quantum phenomena like the double-slit experiment.
The reasons for learning this cutting-edge topic were manifold. Quantum mechanics is the bedrock of modern physics, with far-reaching implications in fields ranging from computing to medicine. Understanding it was crucial for our academic progress and for developing a deeper appreciation of the universe’s fundamental workings.
I found the learning process both exhilarating and humbling. The counterintuitive nature of quantum concepts initially left me perplexed, but as my understanding grew, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing a reality far more complex and fascinating than I had ever imagined.
This experience was truly transformative, igniting a passion for physics that has stayed with me ever since. It taught me the value of perseverance in the face of challenging concepts and the sheer joy of intellectual discovery. Looking back, I can confidently say that learning quantum mechanics was a pivotal moment in my academic journey, shaping my perspective on science and the world around us.
Follow-up Questions
- How has this new knowledge impacted your life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Learning about photosynthesis has made me more aware of environmental issues. I now understand better why protecting plants is so important for our planet. It has also increased my interest in biology and nature in general.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The impact of learning quantum mechanics has been profound and far-reaching. It has fundamentally altered my perception of reality, encouraging me to question my assumptions and approach problems with a more open and creative mindset. This knowledge has not only enhanced my academic pursuits but has also influenced my philosophical outlook on life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the inherent uncertainty and interconnectedness of our universe.
- Do you think schools should focus more on practical skills or theoretical knowledge?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I believe schools should have a balance between practical skills and theoretical knowledge. While theory is important for understanding concepts, practical skills are necessary for applying what we learn in real life. Both are essential for a well-rounded education.
Band 8-9 Answer:
In my view, the optimal approach would be to strike a delicate balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Theoretical understanding provides the foundational framework necessary for critical thinking and innovation, while practical skills ensure that students can effectively apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Ideally, schools should integrate both aspects seamlessly, allowing students to reinforce theoretical concepts through hands-on application. This synergistic approach would not only enhance learning outcomes but also better prepare students for the multifaceted challenges of our rapidly evolving world.
IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How has technology changed the way people learn new things in school?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has significantly changed learning in schools. Students now have access to online resources and can use interactive software to learn. This makes learning more engaging and personalized. However, it’s important to find a balance and not rely too much on technology.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the educational landscape in myriad ways. It has democratized access to information, allowing students to tap into vast repositories of knowledge at their fingertips. Interactive learning platforms and adaptive software have enabled personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs and paces. Furthermore, technology has facilitated collaborative learning across geographical boundaries, exposing students to diverse perspectives and fostering global citizenship. However, it’s crucial to approach this technological integration judiciously, ensuring that it complements rather than supplants traditional teaching methods and interpersonal interactions, which remain vital for holistic development.
Examiner: Do you think the traditional classroom setting will become obsolete in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I don’t think traditional classrooms will become completely obsolete, but they will likely change a lot. Online learning and virtual classrooms are becoming more popular, especially after the pandemic. However, face-to-face interaction is still important for learning, so a mix of both traditional and modern methods might be the best approach.
Band 8-9 Answer:
While the traditional classroom setting is undoubtedly evolving, I believe it’s premature to predict its obsolescence. The future of education is likely to be a hybrid model that harnesses the strengths of both traditional and modern approaches. Virtual and augmented reality technologies may enhance the immersive aspect of remote learning, bridging the gap with physical classrooms. However, the invaluable elements of in-person interaction, such as spontaneous discussions, non-verbal communication, and the development of social skills, are difficult to replicate fully in a digital environment. The challenge lies in striking an optimal balance that leverages technological advancements while preserving the irreplaceable aspects of traditional classroom dynamics.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Revolutionize /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ (verb): To change something completely and dramatically.
Example: “The internet has revolutionized the way we access information.”Delve into /delv ˈɪntə/ (phrasal verb): To research or examine something thoroughly.
Example: “I spent months delving into the history of ancient civilizations.”Mind-bending /maɪnd ˈbendɪŋ/ (adjective): Difficult to understand or believe; causing confusion.
Example: “Quantum physics involves many mind-bending concepts.”Cutting-edge /ˈkʌtɪŋ edʒ/ (adjective): Very modern and advanced.
Example: “The university has cutting-edge research facilities.”Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Very exciting and enjoyable.
Example: “Learning to speak a new language fluently was an exhilarating experience.”Transformative /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ (adjective): Causing a major change to something or someone.
Example: “His year abroad was a transformative experience that broadened his worldview.”
Vocabulary Learning
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a time you learned something new in school:
Prepare diverse examples: Have a range of experiences ready to discuss, from academic subjects to practical skills.
Use sophisticated vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally in your responses.
Provide detailed explanations: Don’t just state what you learned; explain how you learned it and its impact on you.
Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the learning process and the subject matter.
Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly without long pauses or hesitations.
Develop your ideas: Expand on your initial responses with examples, reasons, and personal insights.
Use a variety of grammatical structures: Showcase your language skills by using complex sentences and different tenses appropriately.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate effectively while demonstrating a wide range of language skills. Regular practice and exposure to English will help you achieve this goal.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, you might find our articles on describing a time when you overcame a challenge at school and describing a person who has taught you an important life lesson helpful.